Friday First - Honoring Christ ...By Life ... or Death

During October we have focused on life after healing. And we’ve talked about the new reality the Spirit has and is creating for us. Now we operate from a spiritual perspective. 
But we need to understand that life after healing does not automatically mean we’ll be removed from all of life’s difficult circumstances. It is actually our new spiritual perspective that empowers us to navigate every challenge of life. It helps us look ahead … beyond this world … to the permanence and beauty of the world to come.

In Philippians, Paul is writing from the perspective of joy he experienced in the new life God created for him upon his conversion. No matter the circumstances, he never lost sight of his joy. In fact, the worse the circumstances, the greater joy he possessed. Stress and difficult times can shift your focus totally onto relationship and faith.

Are we so selflessly committed to Jesus that death has no consequence; attacks by others are meaningless; and troubles and struggles seem light? Our message on Sunday will speak to a very real, deep need in our life. What does life after healing truly mean? From what do we find joy? Will we totally surrender to Christ?

In Sunday’s lesson we will examine Philippians 1.19-20 and see how life after healing is rooted in:

• Certainty
• Prayer
• Help from the Spirit
• Confidence in the Promises of Christ

As you prepare for worship on Sunday, please give consideration to these questions:

1. How has God delivered you through differing sets of circumstances in your life?
2. How has prayer of the brethren helped you in your life? Who are some people you can pray for now?
3. How has the Spirit empowered you to handle your circumstances with faith and hope?
4. How much does the thought of honoring Christ by your life … or death … cross your mind?

OPENING / WELCOME
Cain Atkinson

SONG LEADER
Jim Grushon

PRAYER OF PRAISE
Justin Spargo

LORD'S SUPPER
Rich Jacobs

SCRIPTURE READING
Dan Dekoski
Philippians 1.12-20

PREACHING
Matthew Allen

CLOSING COMMENTS & PRAYER
Russ Robins

WELCOME CENTER
Pat Reeder / Emily McDonald / Sadonna Schofield

USHERS (arrive @ 9)
Jim Grushon / Marvin Lewis

Closing the Building
Greg Morrison